The House of Representatives has called for an urgent investigation into the killing of the Benue State Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, Alhaji Ardo Risku Mohammad, warning that failure to bring perpetrators to justice could trigger fresh violence in the state.
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance moved by the member representing Otukpo/Ohimini Federal Constituency, Onuh Onyeche Blessing, during plenary.
Moving the motion, Onyeche described residents of Otukpo/Ohimini as peace-loving people, predominantly farmers, lamenting what she termed persistent killings of innocent citizens under the guise of farmers-herders clashes.
She disclosed that on June 26, 2026, the MACBAN chairman and his associate were murdered along the Okwudu-Okpanchenyi Road in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State.
According to her, the incident has heightened fear and tension in the constituency, with concerns over possible reprisal attacks among residents, including law-abiding Fulani herders.
She warned that the situation poses a serious threat of retaliation, which could expose innocent citizens to acts of vengeance if urgent measures are not taken.
“The killing has created panic and apprehension in the area and may lead to reprisals if not urgently addressed,” she said.
Adopting the motion, the House condemned the killing of the MACBAN chairman and his associate.
The lawmakers urged the Federal Government to immediately deploy additional security personnel to the affected communities and surrounding areas to restore law and order and prevent further violence.
They also called on the Inspector-General of Police to expedite a thorough investigation into the killing, as well as other related incidents linked to farmers-herders clashes in the area, with a view to bringing the perpetrators to justice.
The House further urged the establishment of Forward Operating Bases in Otukpo/Ohimini Federal Constituency, particularly in Okwudu community in Ugboju, to strengthen security presence and reassure residents.